Management of Solvent Misuse: A Glasgow Community Approach

Abstract

The broad spectrum approach to the management of solvent abuse adopted at a clinic held at a police station in the East End of Glasgow, in collaboration with members of the community involvement branch of the police, is described. The results reported in this study concern 300 children betow the age of 16years, who attended the clinic between October 1978 and December 1980. The facets of the study which are of central interest are: the rote of the police, the apparent resolution of the activity, the lack of physical damage, the very low incidence of associated psychiatric disorder, and the increased incidence of solvent use by children of single parent families and in those families where the father is unemployed and in only a minority of cases is there a mixed disturbance of conduct and emotions for which psychiatric intervention is warranted.

Substance abuse and movement disorders

“…Intended effects resemble those produced by ethanol; large doses cause toxic psychosis and hallucinations. Mild tremor can follow abrupt withdrawal, but more severe symptoms, including delirium tremens, are not described 150, 151…”

Drug abuse and the accident and emergency department.

“…A high index of suspicion is essential and referral to a psychiatrist recommended. Specific treatment may not be indicated but caring agencies can be alerted and the problem hopefully contained (Sourindhrin & Baird, 1984).…”